Whole Lot
About Wool!
Wool fabric
is known for it's warth and cozy appearance. The fiber is both soft
and strong, plus projects made of it are often very sturdy. When
you're hot, the fabric wicks away perspiration from the body,
keeping the wearer dry. Even when it's hot out, wool keeps the body
cool. It is wrinkle resistant and even resistant to other elements
such a dirt or stains.
Contrary to popular fact, wool fabric does not only come from
sheep! A widely used cashmere sweaters are made from goats
originated in Kashmir (India). Mohair wool fabric is obtained from
angora goat and angora wool fabric from angora rabbit. The name
angora has been derived from the place Angora (Ankara) in Turkey,
where these animals originated. Alpaca wool fabric comes from the
hair of alpaca animal, a member of the camel family.
As a clothing item, wool has been used since 50 A.D. by the Romans
and the first wool factory was set up in Winchester, England.
According to Fabrics Manufacturer, "in 1797, thirteen merino sheep
was brought to Australia by the British to start merino sheep
industry. Today, Australia is the leading producer of wool fabric."
Interesting how these turn of events can lead to industries of
today. Knitting is very prominent in Australia and wool can be
found in garments originating there even here in items such as the
all popular "Ugg" boot.
Types of Wool
Fabric
Chenille - It has a fur-like texture, which is created when
warp threads are woven in groups. It gives a chunky feel and is
used for both clothing and upholstery.
Felt - It is not a woven fabric but is created by matting or
bonding fibers. Hats and occasional skirts or coats are made from
felt.
Flannel - These are soft and are made of a plain or twilled
weave which are slightly napped on one side i.e. a little fuzzy on
one side.
Gabardine - These fabric has a clear-surface, twill weave
and a fine diagonal rib effect. A good example of gabardine is
coats, suits, trousers, skirts, and dresses.
Melton - These are thicker woolen fabric and is made of
twill or satin weave with a smooth surface. Due to its thickness,
it is used for coats.
Tweed - These are heavier wool fabric with rough texture and
used for suits and coats.
Worsted - These woolen fabrics are hardy, made of smooth
yarn and are used for suits and coats.
So
What About Wool?
- Retains shape
- Flexible
- Light-weight
- Wicks away sweat
- Naturally stretchy and elastic
- Resists the elements
- Keeps you warm and dry
So
What's Made of Wool?
Fashions nowadays use wool all over. There many different pieces of clothing that use it, including dresses, shirts, sweaters (most popular), coats, suits, jackets, pants and more. You'll also find that carpets and blankets are made of wool fibres. An interesting conception to use wool for is the covers on piano hammers!
Photos found on Flickr under Creative Commons
Photo 1 by Erin
Photo 2 by LaCabeza Grande
Photo 3 by ejhogbin
Photo 4 by jepoirrier
References
Fabrics Manufacturers. Wool Fabric
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